Between Trapezes >> In Dublin Review
“In person, and on form, Kelly is someone who could talk (intelligently,
I'll warrant) the legs off a centipede. Paradoxically, he writes lyrics
that are clipped and, in my opinion, uniquely, expressively poetical.
Take the opening lines from the first song, "Faint Heart", as
a perfect example of his lovely prose-like style and wonder at the depth
of feeling in them: "There are toys lost in my cellar, there is damp
in my cellar. My walls don't feel as strong as they should. My windows let
in the windy weather, and in its rocking chair alone my faint heart waits
on the telephone, and you're the only one it's ever wished to give that
number to". I don't know about you, but I reckon that's a great piece
of writing...
These types of insights are dotted all over this superb album. Songs such
as "Republic", "The Night Cesare Lombroso Met The Elephant
Man", and, In particular, "Grey And Blue" (one of the best
songs I've heard in years about the emotional scars and doomed, unrequited
passion that uncivil love affairs can cause), lay claim to being the most
assured and tender that Nick Kelly has yet written.
So, a truly wonderful independent album from someone who has hopped through
enough major record company loops to keep him dizzy for the rest of his
life. It's a real pleasure to say this: welcome back...(10/10)”